A Novel Case-Based Learning Activity With a Focus on Food Insecurity

OBJECTIVE Food insecurity is a social determinant of health (SDOH) affecting 1 in 10 households per year in the United States and has major impacts on the course of chronic health conditions. It is beneficial to introduce screening and appropriate treatment plans to medical students. This study utilized a novel case-based learning exercise (CBLE) to assess confidence, attitudes and improvements in knowledge on recognizing and addressing food insecurity. METHODS A CBLE focused on food insecurity was developed to be implemented in a 2-h session as part of the curriculum for all first-year medical students at the Medical University of South Carolina. The CBLE included a case for discussion, followed by an interview with a standardized patient. Students received invitations to complete pre- and post-CBLE assessment surveys. RESULTS Completion of both pre- and post-surveys was achieved by 29% of students (48 out of 166). Knowledge around the formal definition of “food insecurity,” how to recognize food insecurity versus hunger, and how to screen for food insecurity all increased significantly (P